On Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, the prestigious 10th Anniversary of the Clare Older People’s Volunteer Awards took centre stage at the elegant Woodstock Hotel, marking a decade of celebrating remarkable dedication and community spirit. Hosted by the Clare Older People’s Council and proudly supported by Clare County Council and the Clare Age Friendly Programme, the event was a heartfelt tribute to the invaluable contributions of older volunteers who make an extraordinary impact on their communities. Several esteemed winners from the past decade graced the occasion, joining in the celebration to honour this remarkable 10-year milestone.
The ceremony featured inspiring words from distinguished speakers, including the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr. Alan O’Callaghan; Chairperson of Clare Older People’s Council, Mary O’Callaghan; Director of Services for the Rural and Community Directorate of Clare County Council, Ann Reynolds; and Clare’s esteemed Age Friendly Ambassador, Mike Hanrahan. Their speeches underscored the importance of recognizing and celebrating the unwavering commitment of volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to enriching the lives of others.
The spotlight shone brightly on the twelve exceptional nominees honoured during the ceremony: Christina O’Connor, Bernadette Mee, Dermot Hayes, Frances Bailey, Brian McMahon, James Lafferty, John Logan, Maureen Hand, Maureen Mortell, James Pierce, Eilis ó Nualláin, and Gemma Dowling. Each nominee embodied the spirit of volunteerism, demonstrating the power of kindness, generosity, and community service.
Among the award recipients, John Logan was named Clare Older People’s Volunteer of the Year 2025, a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding dedication. Additionally, in celebration of the event’s milestone anniversary, Dermot Hayes was honoured with the special 10th Anniversary prize, further cementing his legacy as a beacon of volunteerism.
These awards stand as a testament to the profound impact of older volunteers, whose selfless contributions help shape stronger, more connected communities. Their unwavering support, compassion, and commitment continue to uplift and inspire, proving that the spirit of giving knows no age. They dedicate their time, energy, and skills to support others and enhance our communities. Their selfless contributions make an immeasurable difference in the lives of so many.
Melting Moments
Our esteemed Clare Age Friendly Ambassador, Mike Hanrahan, recently captivated audiences as he spoke at a special event highlighting the heartwarming intergenerational book, Melting Moments by Lindsay Martin-Fenlon. This beautifully crafted story, brought to life through enchanting illustrations and deeply relatable characters, serves as a gentle yet powerful tool in helping children understand the changes their loved ones may experience due to dementia. With compassion and insight, Hanrahan explored the significance of such stories in bridging generational gaps and fostering empathy. Melting Moments not only nurtures understanding but also encourages meaningful conversations, allowing young readers to embrace the evolving relationships with their loved ones with warmth and kindness. The event celebrated the profound impact of storytelling in shaping awareness, reminding us all of the beauty found in connection, resilience, and love.
